Attitude determination is the process of figuring out the orientation of an object in space, such as a satellite or spacecraft. This is crucial for ensuring that the object is correctly aligned for tasks like communication, navigation, or scientific observations. By using sensors and algorithms, engineers can determine how the object is positioned relative to the Earth or other celestial bodies.
In the context of space missions, accurate attitude determination helps maintain the stability of instruments and antennas. For example, a satellite needs to point its solar panels toward the Sun to generate power efficiently. Without precise attitude control, the mission could fail or produce unreliable data.